Travel/Tourism
Establishment Of National Carrier At Advance Stage—Amaechi
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Minister of Transportation, Mr Rotimi Amaechi, has once again reiterated that government’s efforts are at advance stage to facilitate the establishment of a National Carrier that would be spear headed by the private sector.
He noted that when established, it will address the current multiple challenges facing the Shipping industry and it will check capital flight, create more employment opportunities for our teeming youth as well as providing opportunity for Sea time training of graduate Cadets.
Mr Amaechi stated this at the 2016 World Maritime Day Celebration in a keynote address he delivered on the theme: “Shipping, Indispensable to the world”, on Wednesday November 2, 2016 in Lagos.
The Minister said opportunities that abound in the Maritime sector which could lift the economy to greater height have remained largely unexploited noting that the most Advance Economies of the World are those that have developed their maritime industries to a greater height and have greatest percentage of participation in international trade.
For Nigeria to achieve this lofty heights, the Minister called for her full participation in international trade which no doubt, has a direct relationship between the development of a nation’s maritime transport by removing all bottlenecks that are affecting the exploration of opportunities that abound in the nation’s maritime sector.
The Minister disclosed that to further address the challenges facing the maritime sector and ensure efficiency and cost effectiveness of the Shipping industry, the Federal Government is putting in place a number of measures which include the privatization of the nation’s Ports and repositioning various regulatory Agencies for effective service delivery as well as vigorously pursuing the expansion of the nation’s Ports system through the development of Deep Sea Ports which will be driven mainly by the private sector.
He further stated that an offshoot of this move was the recent Federal Executive Council approval for the construction of Deep Sea Ports in Lekki and Badagry which are ongoing, and to ensure transparency and accountability in the Maritime Sector, Nigeria as a member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has submitted herself to the IMO’s voluntary Audit.
Mr Amaechi said Nigeria quest for sustainable maritime development is not negotiable stating that to achieve this laudable objectives on time, the Federal Government was committed at exploring the Single Window Project and ensuring that the various operational processes of the maritime sector such as vessel reception, cargo handling and clearance among others become automated to reduce revenue leakages in the system. He noted that the Federal Government was also committed to providing enabling environment for increased private sector participation in the operations and provision of services in the maritime sector.
On security, the Minister hinted that government’s attention is geared towards ensuring security in the Shipping industry hence the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) is being repositioned to effectively partner the Nigeria Navy and all other relevant security Agencies with a view to addressing the security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea.
According to the Minister, another area of endowment is in the area of coastal trade otherwise known as water transportation. It is most environmentally friendly and cost effective which requires increase involvement of the Private Sector so as to harness the attractive opportunity the sector offer.
“Nigeria coastline of about 853km offers opportunity for high economic activities for cargo on Shipping practitioners and other relevant stakeholders to invest more in this area as Government is committed to providing enabling environment for the development of inland water transportation”, he said.
Captain Adamu Audu Biu, an expert in the Shipping industry delivered a paper titled “Growth and Development of Shipping Industry in Nigeria: Creating enabling environment”. In his paper he examined how shipping industry started in Nigeria, the current position and where it ought to be.
Among those who delivered goodwill messages were, the President of Ship owners Association of Nigeria, Engr. Greg Ogbuefun, Engr. Olu Akinsoji, Dr. Kevin Okonna, DG NIMASA, Dr Peterside Dakuku, MD Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Usman Bala, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Sippers’ Council, Hassan Bello and the Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, Ante Ikpajok.
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
A deal has been sealed between the Enugu State government and the Landmark Group for the transformation of the Nike Lake Resort Hotel.
The company, owned by serial investor, Mr Paul Onwuanibe, will revamp the facility and operate for 35 years on lease.
The Governor of Enugu State, Mr Peter Mbah, expressed optimism that Landmark Group would use the hotel to boost tourism sector of the state.
He explained that his administration decided to work with Mr Onwuanibe’s organisation as part of his commitment to transforming Enugu into a global destination for investment and tourism, noting that Nike Lake Resort remains a key government asset that need efficient management to flourish.
“Nike Lake Resort is not just a hotel; it is a symbol of Enugu’s hospitality and tourism potential.
“This partnership reflects our vision to create an environment that fosters investment, job creation, and economic growth,” Mr Mbah remarked.
The Governor said Nike Lake Resort Hotel could position Enugu as a preferred destination for both domestic and international visitors while boosting the state’s economic development.
On his part, Mr Onwuanibe expressed gratitude for the opportunity to manage the iconic hotel and assured the government of delivering world-class services.
He also emphasized the potential of the hotel to serve as a major tourism hub, creating employment opportunities for the youth and revitalizing Enugu’s tourism sector.
While signing the deal with the Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mrs Adaora Chukwu, the Landmark Group boss said the initiative should boost the local economy and attract approximately 3 million visitors annually.
Recall that in 2024, the popular beach resort operated by Landmark Group in Lagos was demolished by the federal government to make way for the controversial Lagos to Calabar Coastal Road.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
To strengthen African trade and diaspora connections, one of the leading airlines in Nigeria, Air Peace, partnered with the Africa Diaspora Investment Network Alliance (ADINA) for its summit held in Ghana on December 27, 2024.
The airline operator said it backed the event to solidify its commitment to fostering stronger ties between Africa and its global diaspora.
The programme facilitated conversations around trade, investment, and economic empowerment, positioning the diaspora as a significant force for Africa’s economic transformation.
At the summit held at the Kempinski Gold Coast City Hotel in Accra, the Head of Sales and Business Development at Air Peace, Mr Davids Odeyemi, emphasized the airline’s mission to connect Africa and its diaspora.
He highlighted Air Peace’s extensive network, which offers seamless travel solutions for diasporans seeking to reconnect with their roots, explore their heritage, and invest in Africa’s burgeoning markets.
Mr Odeyemi also reaffirmed the airline’s role as a driver of intra-African trade, enhancing connectivity to enable the movement of goods, services, and people, thereby creating jobs and fostering economic growth.
Air Peace’s partnership with the ADINA Summit also aligns with its broader commitment to promoting tourism and showcasing Africa’s rich cultural heritage. The airline’s continuous investment in a modern fleet underscores its determination to provide a world-class travel experience, reinforcing its position as a catalyst for African development.
The programme underscored the critical role of diaspora remittances in bolstering local economies, with discussions focusing on the potential of the diaspora to surpass traditional foreign direct investments.
Air Peace, through this partnership, gained access to a high-level network of African and diaspora leaders, creating opportunities to connect with talent, clients, and collaborators while amplifying its branding and marketing initiatives.
By actively participating in the ADINA Summit 2024, Air Peace reaffirmed its dedication to shaping the continent’s future. This partnership exemplifies the airline’s leadership in African aviation and its unwavering commitment to driving progress across the continent. Together with ADINA, Air Peace is helping to unlock Africa’s economic potential and strengthen its global connections.
By Dipo Olowookere
The Enugu Christmas Village has been commissioned by the Minister of Arts, Tourism, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Ms Hanatu Musawa; and the Governor of Enugu State, Mr Peter Mba.
This development officially kicked off the holiday season in the state, giving residents and others from across Nigeria and outside the opportunity to relax in an atmosphere of love, positioning Enugu as a key destination for cultural and holiday tourism.
Facilitated by Omu Resort, a leading tourism promoter in Africa, the Enugu Christmas Village is set to become the heartbeat of holiday celebrations in the state.
The company has already organised a 25-day festival at the village designed to attract residents, visitors, and dignitaries from across the region.
With its vibrant atmosphere and festive attractions, the Enugu Christmas Village boasts an array of attractions such as a waterpark, roller skating, archery, amusement rides, and much more.
At its centre is a breathtaking display of 500,000 Christmas lights, illuminating the village in a magical glow that promises to captivate visitors of all ages.
The festival goes beyond the lights and rides, offering a rich tapestry of events that celebrate the state’s cultural heritage.
Highlights include Afrobeat Concert, Praise Night, Highlife Concert Street Carnival, Cultural Parade and a Grand Fireworks Show.
One of the most anticipated moments is the Santa Street Storm, where over 100 Santa Claus figures riding tricycles will parade through the streets, distributing gifts to orphanages and the less privileged, spreading joy and goodwill.
Running from December 7 to December 31, 2024, the Enugu Christmas Festival is more than just a celebration of the holiday season. It underscores the state’s cultural vibrancy and its potential as a leading tourist destination.
The festival offers a unique opportunity for families and friends to come together, celebrate, and unwind in a festive atmosphere. It is also expected to fosters unity and showcases the rich cultural heritage of Enugu State, while promoting arts, tourism, and community well-being.
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